Looking for suggestions for a 'new' cassette deck

I would take a look at Tascam, they still make great sounding cassette decks. You may also want to look at DAT, I have 2 in my system for over 10 years without any problems at all. DAT tapes are readly available and you can record 2 hours of music per tape.

I've always enjoyed Naks. You might consider having the deck professionally overhauled. Stephen Sank worked on my 581 (sold) and my current CR-7A.

See if you can find a used Tandberg or Revox on Ebay from a highly rated seller.

I'd 2nd the suggestion of a Tascam. Even tho I haven't heard their cassette decks, they do make solid, usually reliable, equipment. Should be possible to get service & parts should you ever need it, too.